Smiths Interviews

2012

Mojo – October 2012

“This issue features the Smiths on the front (“The Birth Of A Legend…), includes an extract from Tony Fletcher’s upcoming biography of the band, and information on Morrissey and Johnny. The issue includes a covermount cd featuring a compendium on indie classics from the year 1982-1987 (the Smiths’ living years), titled “There Is A Light…

2011

Mojo – September 2011

“This issue features a brief article with Craig Gannon about his brief time in the Smiths.” -PJLM

NME – 18 June 2011

“For the 25th anniversary of the release of the album “The Queen Is Dead”, the NME put the band on the cover and included inside a special feature on the album and its making.” -PJLM

Mojo – April 2011

“Includes a special feature on the album “The Queen Is Dead” for the 25th anniversary of its release. Features interviews with Johnny Marr, Mike Joyce, Geoff Travis, Grant Showbiz, etc, about the album and the events that led to its creation.” -PJLM *Photograph credits pending

Record Collector – January 2011

“Special feature on collecting the Smiths’ live memorabilia. Photo of the band on the cover.” -PJLM

2010

Total Guitar – October 2010

Johnny Marr gives a rundown of his guitar career, with specific analysis of his guitar style, with tabs.

2009

Uncut – March 2009

“Short article in which four fans recount their experiences of seeing The Smiths live at various gigs in 1984” – MS Photo credit: Tom Sheehan, Redferns

Record Collector – June 2009

“Special feature about The Smiths’ test pressings, unreleased singles, and rejected sleeves.” – MS Photograph credits: Dean Freeman, Paul Cox, Stephen Wright

Musikexpress – March 2009

“Lengthy Morrissey history article, plus a short interview. Topics: Oscar Wilde, Chrissie Hynde, Jerry Finn, the Years Of Refusal sleeve art, Barack Obama, turning 50, his autobiography, etc.” Thumbnail credit: Andrew Catlin Photographs: Chris Cuffaro, Peter Ashworth, Stephen Wright, Andrew Catlin, Paul Cox

Uncut – January 2009

“The band’s 22 February 1984 concert at Reading University was that months’ “Were You There?” feature. Photographer Tom Sheehan was interviewed about shooting the band before the show and about the show itself. The articles featured mostly his photographs with his quotes appearing as captions.” -PJLM Thumbnail & photo credit: Tom Sheehan

2008

Hot Press – November 2008

A short interview with Johnny Marr about The Sound of The Smiths compilation, the legacy of The Smiths, Top of The Pops, and possible reformation of The Smiths.

Uncut – February 2008

A short Johnny Marr interview about the recording of Meat Is Murder and the tracks on it. Photograph by Lawrence Watson.

Mojo – March 2008

“This issue featured the Smiths on the cover and a 24-page special on the Smiths inside. The special included an interview with Mike Joyce talking about the band.” -PJLM Photographs by Paul Slattery, Amy Halsey, Youri Lenquette (uncredited), Rex, Andy Fallon, Russell Young, Andrew Catlin, Kate Garner

2007

Uncut – March 2007

“Stop me if you’ve heard this one before” A short article about interviewing Johnny Marr and Morrissey, with excerpts from the Johnny Marr interview at the end. Johnny talks about first meeting Morrissey and the first Smiths recordings.

Hot Press – 14 November 2007

“”Heaven knows they’re legendary now”. Johnny Marr and Stephen Street are interviewed by Paul Nolan about The Smiths career, exploring various songs, how it was in the studio, Stephen Street’s collaboration, and a brief section on Modest Mouse.”

Uncut – November 2007

“This issue includes a photo feature covering early Smiths sessions with Paul Slattery.” -PJLM

Q – May 2007

“This issue featured an extensive article by Smiths biographer Simon Goddard titled “The Last Days Of the Smiths / The Last Rites”.” -PJLM

Uncut – March 2007

“Lengthy countdown of the top 30 Smiths songs including interviews with celebrity Smiths fans, along with a page-long article about Johnny Marr’s own thoughts on “How Soon Is Now?”. Photographs by Paul Slattery, Russell Young, Stephen Wright, Jill Furmanovsky (miscredited to Virginia Turbett), Peter Ashworth and Tom Sheehan. Band on the cover.” – Description from…

2006

Uncut – November 2006

“Rock Landmarks”. A short article detailing the final “meeting” of The Smiths in Geales Fish Restaurant. “It’s true … The Smiths actually split up in a chippy.”

Q – 15 March 2006

“Morrissey & The Story Of Manchester (UK) This special edition of Q Magazine includes interviews with members of all major bands from Manchester, England, including Morrissey and the other three Smiths. The Morrissey interview is an adapted version of the April 2006 Mojo interview.”

Uncut – January 2006

“Lengthy article by Simon Goddard about the making (writing, recording, artwork) of the “The Queen Is Dead” album, on the eve of the album’s 20th anniversary. Includes comments by Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke and Mike Joyce. Also includes an old interview with Morrissey that originally appeared in Melody Maker in March 1984.”

2005

Uncut – June 2005

“Oxbridge, here we come”. An article about the lecture about The Smiths that took place at Manchester Metropolitan University.

2004

Q Icons – November 2004

“Morrissey is ranked #11 on Q magazine’s list of top 100 music icons.” Image credit: Paul Slattery

Q – October 2004

“Article about the Morrissey/Marr songwriting team, with old quotes from both Morrissey and Johnny.”

Word – June 2004

“Includes interviews with Johnny Marr and Mike Joyce about the story and the end of the Smiths.” Photo credit: Paul Slattery

Q – May 2004

“English translation of a fascinating, in-depth interview with Morrissey, originally conducted by Dutch magazine Oor in 1986. Topics: being interviewed, promoting The Smiths, Top of the pops, ego and the importance of The Smiths, suicide, his love of cemeteries, Some girls are bigger than others, There is a light that never goes out, and camp…

2003

Record Collector – June 2003

“Includes article by Simon Goddard (who published a book titled “Songs That Saved Your Life” about the story of Smiths songs). The article talks about the records that influenced the Smiths. The magazine also includes an illustrated discography.”

NME – 7 June 2003

“This issue came with a special supplement devoted to the Smiths for the band’s 20th anniversary. Includes old interviews, album reviews, letters Morrissey wrote to the paper, etc.”

2002

NME – 20 April 2002

An article that discusses The Smiths’ relationship with the press

Uncut – September 2002

“The story of the making of “Strangeways Here We Come”, by Simon Goddard with the help of Mike Joyce and Andy Rourke. Photo credits: Lawrence Watson, Paul Slattery and Stephen Wright.”

2001

Record Collector – October 2001

“‘The Smiths Lost Tracks’, an article about unreleased Smiths music.” Photo credits: Stephen Wright, Paul Slattery

Mojo – April 2001

“‘Heroin, Brutality and two light ales please’. Special issue where the Smiths and Morrissey are heavily covered. Main feature “Trouble At Mill / The Queen Is Dead And Beyond” is an article about the period from “The Queen Is Dead” to the split. It includes interviews with Johnny Marr and Andy Rourke. Also includes “Fame…

Q – February 2001

“Contains an article titled “31 January 1984 – 20 March 1984: The Smiths’ First UK Tour” by Johnny Rogan, Mick Middles and John Robertson. Includes accounts by Johnny Marr, Geoff Travis, and Sandie Shaw to name a few.”

2000

Mojo – March 2000

“”Time Machine – The Smiths Smash Top 3”, flashback story by Andrew Perry to March 1984. The recording of “What Difference Does It Make?” with John Porter and Mike Joyce on the making of the cover artwork of the debut album.”

1999

Uncut – April 1999

“Electronic interview where Marr talks a lot about The Smiths. Electronic on cover: “The Agony And The Ecstasy / Johnny Marr On The Secret History Of The Smiths”. Inside: “Getting Away With It”. Photos (many previously printed elsewhere) by Tom Sheehan, Kevin Cummins, Retna, Andrew Catlin, Ebet Roberts.”

1994

Q – October 1994

“Retrospective on Morrissey’s artwork for the release of Jo Slee’s “Peepholism” book. She is interviewed by Martin Aston. The article contains quite a lot of info from Jo Slee herself which is not found in “Peepholism”. Photos by Linder Sterling and Chris Taylor.”

Vox – May 1994

“This issue includes a special photo feature to coincide with the release of Johnny Rogan’s ‘The Smiths: The Visual Documentary’”

Best – April 1994

“Morrissey interview and Smiths retrospective.”

Q – January 1994

“‘The Greatest Story Never Told’ / ‘Nothing To Declare But Their Genius’, a retrospective of the Smiths’ career, put together by David Cavanaugh with interviews of Andy Rourke, Mike Joyce, Geoff Travis, John Porter, Stephen Street, and many other people who were involved. Photographs by Paul Slattery.”

1993

NME – 20 November 1993

“The Smiths on the cover “Reunite and take over. Have Morrissey and Marr patched it up?”. Photographs by Kevin Cummins, Paul Slattery, Claude Gassian (uncredited), Ross Marino, and Stephen Wright. Also includes a reprint of the 14 May 1983 NME interview with Cath Carroll.”

Select – December 1993

“‘It’s time the tale were told … Johnny Marr on the Smiths” / “The Secret History”, Marr interview by Stuart Macone. Photos of Marr on the cover and inside by Steve Pyke. Topics: various collaborations, being a guitarist, the Smiths, early days, rundown of various releases in chronological order, relations within the group.”

Les Inrockuptibles – February 1993

“‘Petite Mort” (“Small Death”), a Johnny Marr interview by Johnny Rogan about the Smiths. Photos by Paul Slattery. Topics: partnership with Morrissey, Rough Trade, writing methods, the debut album, “Meat Is Murder”, “The Queen Is Dead”, Andy Rourke’s drug problems, pressure, 1986 tour, the final recording sessions and the end of the band.”

Select – March 1993

“Joyce and Rourke interview by David Cavanagh titled “The Good Lieutenants”. Photos by Rosa Weekes. Topics: the debut album, writing with Morrissey, “Meat Is Murder”, vegetarianism, “The Queen Is Dead”, “Strangeways Here We Come”. Mike and Andy photographs by Rosa Weekes; Smiths photos by Tom Sheehan, Stephen Wright and Lawrence Watson.”

1992

Record Collector – December 1992

“Second part of Johnny Marr interview by Johnny Rogan. See part 1 for topics covered” Photo credit: Paul Slattery

Record Collector – November 1992

“Feature on The Smiths collectables, including a “Top 100 rarities” by Mark Thompson. Morrissey and Marr on cover. First part of Johnny Marr interview by Johnny Rogan who later published the “Severed Alliance” biography. Topics: early days, Rough Trade, sessions for the debut album, writing with Morrissey, Andy’s drug problems, management, recordings various songs and…

Oor – August 1992

“”Een obsessie die vijf jaar duurde” / “Het Grote Morrissey interview”. Dutch article about The Smiths by Bert van de Kamp, plus original interview (in Dutch) with Morrissey conducted by Marnix Peeters, and a review of “Morrissey and Marr: the severed alliance”. Photographs by Eric Watson, Lawrence Watson, Wim van de Hulst, and Rob Verhorst…

Vox – June 1992

“At Last The Real Story”. Photos, including cover, by SIN, LFI, Retna, Prial Press, Stephen Wright. Many articles about the Smiths, this is almost a special issue about the band: news about possible reunion, “The Wit & Wisdom Of Morrissey” (a collection of quotes), “What Difference Did It Make?” a Smiths story written by Johnny…

Outlook – January-February 1992

“Special Smiths/Morrissey feature, including a Smiths overview article, an essay by Mark Simpson about Morrissey’s sexuality and appeal to fans, and short interviews with Stephen Street, Phranc, and Sandie Shaw.”

1991

Record Hunter – July 1991

“Season-by-season history of The Smiths’ first 12 months, from their very early gigs in the summer of ‘83, up to the release of Heaven knows I’m miserable now.”

1989

NME – 24 June 1989

“”Johnny, Remember Me?”, a Johnny Marr interview by Dave Haslam. Topics: the split, collaborations, giving interviews, musical influences, journalism, Manchester.” – PJLM

Melody Maker – 23 September 1989

“Special 20-page supplement dedicated to The Smiths as part of a series on ’80s bands. Includes an extensive overview of the band’s history, a couple of pages about pre-Smiths Morrissey,a discography, and many quotes.”

Les Inrockuptibles – September 1989

“The Smiths’ retrospective article and Johnny Marr interview, all in French. Interview topics: the final days of Smithdom, new collaborations, being a spokesperson, his musical influences, his favourite memories of being with The Smiths, the Smiths’ musical style, and Manchester.”

Best – August 1989

“The Smiths’ career overview, in French. Includes some previously unpublished photographs from the band’s trip to France in 1984.”

1988

Rockin’ On – May 1988

Japanese translation of the Len Brown interview done in the February NME.

No. 1 – 12 March 1988

“Selection of Morrissey quotes, on a wide variety of topics.”

Crossbeat – October 1988

“Extensive Smiths/Morrissey history and discography for fans of imported rock. Cover colour photo. Photo credits: cover by Tom Sheehan; article photos by Ron Delaney, Peter Anderson, Kenji Kubo, Jo Novark and Cindy Palmano.”

Best – March 1988

“Article about The Smiths, in French.”

1987

Record Mirror – 23 May 1987

“”The wit and wisdom of Morrissey”. Short interview presented as a series of quotes, with photographs by Peter Anderson and Cindy Palmano.”

Company – October 1987

“Very short Morrissey interview that formed the basis of a much longer interview published around the same time in Melody Maker.”

Tutti Frutti – May 1987

“Morrissey interview, in Italian.”

The Observer – August 1987

“Another interview conducted following Johnny Marr’s departure; this one considerably more sombre in tone. Topics: his public image, eating habits, isolation, signing to EMI, the attempt to source a new guitarist, and the death of pop music.”

The Face – April 1987

“”Fashion Cares!” / “The Band With The Thorn In His Side”, a lengthy Smiths story by Nick Kent. Photographs by Lawrence Watson. Topics: recent releases and tour, Andy’s drug problem, the Smiths’ change of direction, moving on to EMI.”

Spex – September 1987

“Morrissey interview, in German.”

No. 1 – 28 November 1987

“”The Smiths: godlike or what?”, a Smiths history in bullet-point format. Photographs by Paul Cox and Tom Sheehan.”

Smash Hits – 26 August 8 September 1987

“Morrissey interview by Chris Heath. Topics: royalty, relatives, celibacy, Smiths audience, happiness, crying, friends, the end of the Smiths.”

Sky – October 1987

“Morrissey interview. Topics: moving to EMI, literature, language and his vocabulary, his flat in Chelsea, suicide, and the possibility of having a romantic relationship.”

Rockerilla – March 1987

“Overview of The Smiths history, with a month-by-month chronology of events from July 1982 to February 1987, in Italian. Also includes a review of The world won’t listen.”

Record Mirror – 14 February 1987

“”Visionary Outcast or Egotistical Twit” / “The Boy In The Bubble”, a Morrissey interview by Stuart Bailie. Photo on cover. Topics: the harsh truth of the camera eye, “Shoplifters Of The World Unite” and other recent songs, British music, the current music scene, jealousy, sexuality, the interview with Pete Burns, moving on to EMI, “The…

Record Mirror – 5 September 1987

“Post-split era career overview by The Smiths’ former press officer, Nancy Culp.”

Q – August 1987

“Morrissey “He did it his way” / “Oh Such Drama”. An interview by Paul Du Noyer. Morrissey on cover. Topics: Smiths story to “Strangeways Here We Come”, North vs London, past, future with EMI, heroes, personal matters, management, touring.”

Oor – 21 February 1987

“Morrissey interview “The Smiths, Morrissey: de prins van de pijn”, an interview by Martin Aston. Morrissey on cover, photo by Sunshine. Topics: giving interviews, fans, promotion, the past and the present, success and fame , his importance in the music world, “The Queen Is Dead” album and its individual tracks, suicide and death, camp.”

No. 1 – 9 May 1987

“”35 Things You Didn’t Know About The Smiths”. Many interesting (even if of slightly dubious accuracy) facts about the band, involving everything from Johnny Marr’s Ansaphone message to Morrissey’s hat collection and offer of a modelling job for Comme des Garçons(!). Photographs by Jo Novark and Patrick Quigley.”

NME – 14 February 1987

“Includes “Exile On Mainstream” an interview with Marr by Danny Kelly, and their best of 1986 poll results where The Smiths were voted best in most categories. Band on cover “The Smiths Caught Red-Handed”. Photographs by Lawrence Watson. Topics: Marr’s role within the Smiths, the American tour, signing with EMI, dance music, their audience, Andy…

Musik Express – October 1987

article in German

Melody Maker – 26 September 1987

“Morrissey interview by Gary Leboff “Goodbye Cruel World” / “How Soon Is Now?”. Topics: “Strangeways Here We Come”, signing to EMI, writing, fame, disability chic, the Smiths’ position.”

Les Inrockuptibles – October 1987

“This is the legendary Morrissey interview conducted on 8 September 1987 by Christian Ferret, in which Morrissey officially announced the end of the Smiths. Photos by Andrew Catlin.”

i-D – October 1987

“”Mr Smith All Mouth And Trousers?”, a Morrissey interview by Dylan Jones with photographs by Richard Croft. Topics: British music, England, living in the past, sex, love, the end of the Smiths, audience, “Strangeways Here We Come”.”

Creem – July 1987

“Interview titled “The Smiths Strangeways Have Found Us” / “Memo From Morrissey” by Andy Hughes. Morrissey and Marr on cover. Topics: America, interviews, videos, new releases.”

BAM – 3 July 1987

“Johnny Marr interview. Topics: his musical roots, meeting Morrissey, songwriting, Morrissey’s voice, synthesisers, working with Craig Gannon, drinking, crowd violence on the recent tour, and the move to EMI.”

A New England – 1987

“This Charming Band.” Article discussing Shaun Duggan and his play “William”, Smiths’ move to EMI, and at the end, Johnny Marr leaving the band.

1986

NME – 8 March 1986

“Includes their best of 1985 poll results where The Smiths were voted best group, Morrissey best singer, best haircut and best dressed person, “Meat Is Murder” album of the year, Morrissey/Marr best songwriters. The band, Morrissey or Marr are also listed at different positions in the ‘best single’, ‘best live act’, ‘best dressed sleeve’, ‘most…

Melody Maker – 11 October 1986

An article of various fans responding to Morrissey’s controversial remarks in his interview that appeared in the 27 September 1986 issue of Melody Maker.

Smash Hits – Letter, 1986

Morrissey explains the “secret” etchings on Smiths records.

Smash Hits – 1986 Personal File

“”Personal File”, Morrissey fills in a questionnaire.” Includes a reprint/alternate scan.

Graffiti – October 1986

“”Morrissey Makes Six Points”, a Morrissey interview by Mike Allen. Topics: Rough Trade, touring, politics, videos, literature, the Smiths future.”

The Village Voice – 30 September 1986

“Her Majesty’s Muggers”. Article by Don Shewey, reviewing The Smiths’ work and career so far.

Spin – September 1986

“”Spirit In The Dark”, article by Jessica Berens which includes many Morrissey quotes.”

Spex – August 1986

“Article, in German.”

Sounds – 14 June 1986

“Morrissey interview. On the cover: “Morrissey: Bigmouth bounces back.””

Smash Hits – 16 July 1986

“A Smash Hits “Get Smart” special on the band, in which a few reader questions about Oscar Wilde, Morrissey’s use of a hearing aid, and James Dean is not dead are answered. Also includes a discography up to the release of Panic.”

Rolling Stone – 9 October 1986

“”Keeping Up With The Smiths”, an article with by David Fricke with Morrissey quotes. Topics: the New York Dolls, the Smiths within the 80s music scene, “The Queen Is Dead”, sixties singles, writing, etc.”

Rock Express – October 1986

“”A Murderous Desire For Love”, a Morrissey interview conducted by Dianne Collins. Topics: loneliness, being interviewed, The Smiths’ management, fans in North America, songwriting, performing live. Photographs by Jo Novark and Louis DeFilippis.”

Record Mirror – 14 June 1986

“Johnny Marr interview by Eleanor Levy. He is on the cover. Topics: “The Queen Is Dead”, Andy leaving the Smiths, problems with Rough Trade, the Smiths as heartthrobs.”

No. 1 – 28 June 1986

“”Bigmouth Strikes Again”, Morrissey interviewed by Max Bell. Photographs by Ian McKell. Topics: royalty, Andy’s short leave of the Smiths, “The Queen Is Dead”, traveling in England, death.”

NME – 7 June 1986

“Morrissey interview by Ian Pye: “Some Mothers Do ‘Ave ‘Em” / “Long Live The Queen”. The photo by Cindy Palmano on the cover was voted in May 1993 in the NME’s 40th anniversary issue as their best cover photo ever. Inside photo by Lawrence Watson. Topics: British writers, records, “The Queen Is Dead”, the Smiths…

Mucchio Selvaggio – November 1986

“The Smiths career overview, in Italian.”

Melody Maker – 27 September 1986

“”Home Thoughts From Abroad”, Morrissey interview by Frank Owen in Cleveland on the “Queen Is Dead” tour. Topics: sex, black music, Manchester, its gay scene, 1970s, etc.”

Les Inrockuptibles – October 1986

“Morrissey interview, in French. Topics: his private persona, criticism, adolescence, The Queen is Dead, being misunderstood, sex and asexuality.” Photograph & Thumbnail credit: Joelle Depont, Paul Slattery, Eugene Adebari

Hot Press – 11 April 1986

“Morrissey interview. Topics: dealing with the personal demands of fans, Margaret Thatcher, his words and opinions in interview being exaggerated and taken out of context, drugs, The queen is dead, the possibility of moving to another label, success in America, acting, fatherhood, celibacy, his ambitions, and vegetarianism.”

Creem – February 1986

“Includes a Smiths interview “We’ll Meat Again Doing It Smiths-style”.”

City Life – October 1986

“Morrissey interview. Topics: religion, the decline of Coronation Street, the Smiths’ defection to a major label, Morrissey’s views on his home city, etc.”

1985

Smash Hits Yearbook – 1985

Smash Hits’ 1985 Yearbook. Included is a 20 question questionnaire with Morrissey (Photo credit: Peter Ashworth). and an excerpt of Johnny Marr talking about his sunglasses. (Photo credit: Paul Slattery).

Star Hits – June 1985

A list of “facts” and quotes about The Smiths, with some errors or exaggerations.

NME – 23 February 1985

“Photo of Morrissey by Peter Anderson on cover. The issue includes their best of 1984 poll results where The Smiths were voted best group, Johnny Marr best instrumentalist and Morrissey/Marr best songwriters. The band, Morrissey or Marr are also listed at different positions in the ‘best new act’, ‘best male singer’, ‘best single’, ‘best album’,…

Sounds – 20 April 1985

“”Sorrow’s Native Son”, a Morrissey interview by Antonella Black. Photo by Gavin Watson. Topics: happiness, love, fragility, celibacy, eroticism, sexuality.”

Smash Hits Yearbook – 1985

Morrissey talks about the writing of Hand In Glove. Lyrics at bottom of the page.

No. 1 – 1985

“”Yeahs and Yeuks” is a list of Morrissey’s Top 10 loved songs (“yeahs”) and Top 5 hated ones (“yeuks”).”

Countdown – May 1985

“Profiles of each member of the band (birthday, siblings, height, weight, favourite food, hobbies, favourite film, etc).”

Bravo – 14 March 1985

“”Ein Kampfer fur Gerechtigkeit”, a brief interview with Morrissey by Margit Rietti conducted after the Brighton Dome gig in March 1985.”

Zig Zag – May 1985

“Morrissey cover. Includes interview with Morrissey “Dance With A Stranger” / “Shakespeare or Bacon?” by Antonella Black. Topics: reserve, childhood, being different, being a figurehead, sex life, cars, leather”

Time Out – 7 March 1985

“”No Sex, No Drugs, No Rock ‘n’ Roll, And Definitely No Royalty” / “This Charming Man”. Morrissey on cover. Interview by Simon Garfield. Topics: tabloids, Band-Aid, being outspoken, the music industry, royalty, journalism, fashion, the Smiths.”

The Hit – October 1985

“Morrissey interview by Paul DuNoyer: “Goons And Philistines”. Photo on cover and inside by Iain ?. Topics: success, sports, George Formby, fashion, life, Smiths position.”

The Face – May 1985

“”Dreamer In The Real World”, Morrissey and Marr interview by Nick Kent. Photographs by Nick Knight. Topics: his past, Manchester, early Smiths days, Morrissey’s surname, the Moors murders, music while growing up, punk, journalism, working with each other. Note: the 2-hour audio from this interview is available from bootleg traders.”

Spin – June 1985

“‘The Smiths’, an article by Jon Savage. This is not an interview per se, more like an essay, but it includes quotes by Morrissey. Topics: pop music, sexual identity and stereotypes, Manchester.”

Sonido – October 1985

“Article, in Spanish.”

Star Hits – December 1985

“Morrissey answers twenty questions about topics such as sport, school, punk, drinking, smoking, sexuality, favourite things, doing his laundry, love, groiwng old, after-life, being a pop star, etc. Also includes a few paragraphs about “Hand In Glove”.”

Smash Hits – 31 July 1985

Descriptions and stories of The Smiths cover stars, and Morrissey’s cover star status on the Pink Industry single

Smash Hits – 31 January 1985

“”Meat Is Murder”, Morrissey interview by Tom Hibbert. Photo on cover of Morrissey holding a kitten. Topics: meat, animal liberation, vegetarianism, pets, Band-Aid.”

Smash Hits – 9-22 October, 1985

“”Morrissey And Pete Burns?!! The Very Odd Couple”. Both interviewed by Ian Cranna and appear on cover. Inside: “A Friendship Made In Heaven”. Topics: their friendship, meeting, success, etc.”

Running Order issue No. 3 – March/April 1985

“Morrissey interview by Robert Watts. Excerpts were later printed in Melody Maker.”

Rock! – October 1985

“Introductory-style Smiths article, aimed at an American audience.”

Rock & Folk – March 1985

“”Le coup du charme”, an article by François Gorin written following an alleged interview with Morrissey. Very little of the interview comes out in this article. Instead, the author tries to dissect, in essay form, Morrissey’s approach to music and art. A very annoying read!”

Record Mirror – 21 September 1985

“‘A Little Bit Of Soap’, a Morrissey interview by Eleanor Levy about the British soap operas (Coronation Street, Crossroads, Eastenders, Brookside, Albion Market). Photo on cover and inside by Eamonn McCabe.”

Record Mirror – 3 August 1985

“Morrissey interview titled “The Smiths: Morrissey On Money, Immortality And America”. Morrissey ‘Fake’ photo on cover with title “Morrissey – Fraud or Figurehead?”. Topics include Smiths in America, success, Morrissey look-alikes, etc.”

Oor – 4 May 1985

“Morrissey interview “Morrissey het nekvel van The Smiths” by Marc Mijlemans. Morrissey on cover, photo by Anton Corbijn. Topics include lyrics and the “Meat Is Murder” album”

No. 1 – 3 August 1985

“Mike Joyce interview by Karen Swayne. Topics: joining the Smiths, signing to WEA, touring, being a sex symbol, Morrissey, and becoming vegetarian.”

No. 1 – 2 March 1985

“Two pages of Morrissey quotes on a variety of topics (childhood, sex, fame, politics, fashion, etc.) culled from earlier interviews. Photographs by Paul Cox.”

NME – 8 June 1985

“Morrissey interview by Danny Kelly. “Feast Of Steven; Morrissey Fallen Angel or Media Megagod?” / “The Further Thoughts Of Chairman Mo”. Photos by Douglas Cape on cover and inside. Topics: giving interviews, religion, the last tour, concerts, America, the record business, Morrissey vs other Smiths, current music scene, heroes, past, love, etc”

Melody Maker – 16 March 1985

“‘The Morrissey Inquisition’ / ‘Trial By Jury’, Morrissey interview by representatives of various fanzines (Robert Watts of Running Order, Dave Haslam from Debris, Tim Barlow from Eat Yourself Fitter, Rob Deacon from Abstract, Lesley O’Toole from Inside Out, Jon Story from Bucketfull Of Brains), edited by Allan Jones. Morrissey on the cover. Topics: giving interviews,…

Melody Maker – 3 August 1985

“‘Strumming For The Smiths’ / ‘The Thoughts Of Chairman Marr’, Johnny Marr interview by Barry McIlheney. Photo on cover and inside by Tom Sheehan. Topics: giving interviews, press, music business, music scene, concerts, the next album, looking back on the debut album, sixties vs eighties, Band Aid, musical influences.”

Guitarist – February 1985

“Interview with Johnny Marr by Geoff Twigg.”

Ciao 2001 – 15 March 1985

Article in Italian

Blitz – May 1985

“Morrissey interviews Pat Phoenix. Morrissey appears on the cover: “Wordsmith! Morrissey interviews Pat Phoenix”. Photographs by John Stoddart.”

Best – March 1985

“Morrissey interview by Jean-Eric Perrin. Also includes a review of Meat Is Murder.”

1984

NME – 24 December 1983

“1984 predictions by Morrissey” – PJLM

The Advocate – 16 October 1984

“Pop Music Special” – Morrissey gives an interview to The Advocate about celibacy, sex, sexuality, gay musicians, role models, growing up. The interview is included with an assessment of out gay musicians at the time.

Smash Hits – 12 September 1984

“”Personal File”, Johnny Marr fills in a questionnaire.”

No. 1 – 25 August 1984

“”Johnny Too Bad”. Johnny Marr interview by Nick Adams, primarily about his relationship with Morrissey. Also includes the lyrics to “William, It Was Really Nothing”. Photographs (uncredited) by Paul Cox and Peter Ashworth.”

Sunday Times – 8 January 1984

“”The hits and myths of The Smiths”. Very short early interview with Morrissey and Johnny by Jon Savage. Nice colour photograph of the band by Eric Watson.”

Rolling Stone – 7 June 1984

“”Oscar! Oscar! Great Britain Goes Wilde For The 4th-Gender Smiths”, a Morrissey interview by James Henke. This is the first interview to be published in the United States. It also is the controversial one which started with Henke claiming that Morrissey was gay. It prompted one of the first negative reaction by Morrissey to journalists.…

Record Mirror – 4 February 1984

“Morrissey reviews the singles”

Record Mirror – 9 June 1984

“Johnny Marr interview titled “The smiths talk sex, celibacy, spots, glands”, conducted by Simon Mills. Many topics, including The Thompson Twins, his guitar style, money, fans, personal grooming, Sade, Sandie Shaw, and homosexuality. Photograph by Eugene Adebari.”

Record Mirror – 7 January 1984

“Brief article about Sandie Shaw’s collaboration with The Smiths, with Morrissey/Sandie fashion shoot pin-up.”

No. 1 – 22 September 1984

“Intimate Details”. A short Morrissey questionnaire.

No. 1 – 5 May 1984

“Hand In Glove”. Another article (with quotes) on the collaboration between Sandie Shaw and The Smiths.

“The Feast of St. Stephen” – 1984

“Please kiss me under the mistletoe.” A parody piece on The Smiths in the Christmas/New Year edition of NME

Look-in – 24 March 1984

A questionnaire with all 4 members

Jackie – 15 September 1984

“Short, teen-mag Morrissey interview, in which he answers a variety of questions about The Smiths’ fans, fashion accessories, Top of the pops, his singing voice, etc.”

Jackie – 6 October 1984

Johnny Marr questionnaire.

Jackie – 4 August 1984

“Johnny Marr fills out Jackie’s A-Z list questionnaire.”

Jackie – 1 September 1984

“Short article about one very lucky Jackie reader getting to meet The Smiths.”

Creem – June 1984

“”Handsome Devils” / “Through Being Cool”, a one page interview of Johnny Marr by Merle Ginsberg. Topics: being uncool, about the Smiths, other bands.”

Sandie Shaw Interview – 1984

Interview with Sandie Shaw about her collaboration with The Smiths. Source unknown.

Smash Hits – 25 October-7 November 1984

“Morrissey reviews the singles. Title: Morrissey does his bit. Singles being reviewed are by Duran Duran, Hazell Dean, Chaka Khan, Siouxsie And The Banshees, Ultravox, Lionel Richie, Status Quo, Scritti Politti, Prefab Sprout, etc.”

Undress – 1984

“Morrissey interview by Iain Webb. Topics: clothes, look, flowers, heroes, shopping.”

Zig Zag – February 1984

“Smiths interview by William Shaw “Glad All Over”. Photo by Mitch Jenkins. Topics: ambitions, the pop business, sex, Morrissey’s childhood.”

Zig Zag – August 1984

“”The man who caught the common cold”. Lengthy Johnny Marr interview conducted by Rex Garvin. Topics: the music industry, childhood, Morrissey’s lyrics, musical influences, ego, the sincerity of The Smiths.”

The Face – July 1984

” Morrissey interview by Elissa Van Poznak. Photos by Davies & Starr. Topics: giving interviews, doing Pop Quiz, success, parents, before the Smiths, influences, cover stars, heroes, the Sandie Shaw collaboration, Whalley Range, poverty.”

The Face – February 1984

“Smiths interview by Katie Neville “The Post-Cool School” / “Dreamer In The Real World”. Photos by Steve Tynan. Topics: early success, what the songs are about, fans, etc.”

Square Peg No. 6 – August 1984

“Morrissey interview. Square Peg was an arts and culture fanzine for the gay community. Topics: the media circus, their target audience, having influence, having male cover stars, sexual ambiguity, sexual labelling, being a sexual object, fans, being pop music outsiders, despair and suicide, celibacy.”

Sounds – 25 February 1984

“Johnny Marr interview by Hugh Felder “Scratch ‘n’ Smiths”. Photos by Paul Slattery. Topics: success, fans, Morrissey in the spotlight, playing live, recording the debut album, ambitions.”

Smash Hits – 21 June – 4 July 1984

“”The Morrissey Collection”. Morrissey interviewed by Ian Birch. Topics: heroes Oscar Wilde, James Dean and Billy Fury.”

Smash Hits – 16 February 1984

“”Hits and Myths”, a Morrissey interview by Dave Rimmer. Topics: the impact of the Smiths on the music scene, Oscar Wilde, being a depressive adolescent, the New York Dolls, meeting Johnny Marr, the message of the Smiths, success.”

Rorschach Testing – Early 1984

“Morrissey interview titled “Message Understood”. Topics: Rough Trade, “Hand In Glove”, “This Charming Man”, various songs, charts, radio sessions, the debut album in the making, childhood and past, Sandie Shaw, Irish ancestry. Includes great very early photos of the band.”

Rock & Folk – May 1984

Interview (?) in French

Rip It Up – April 1984

“Richard Langston interviews Morrissey in the New Zealand magazine Rip It Up””

Record Mirror – 11 February 1984

“”Morrissey: Is this man really a sex symbol?” / “Morrissey Dancing”, a Morrissey interview by Andy Strikes. Photo on cover. Topics: success, moving to London, being a sex symbol, lyrics, ambition, the upcoming debut album.”

Record Mirror – 8 September 1984

“Smiths (yes all 4 members) interview. Cover photo of Morrissey hugging Marr. Topics: naming the Smiths, friends, the press, writing, success, guitars, Smiths lyrics, videos.”

Record Mirror – 5 May 1984

“2 pages on the Smiths and Sandie Shaw. Sandie plus band minus Morrissey on cover. Sandie interviewed by Graham K. Topics: heroes, Morrissey, working with the Smiths, fame, eighties vs sixties, etc.”

NY Rocker – May 1984

“Interview with Morrissey and Johnny Marr, conducted during their visit to New York back in December/January. Topics: their collaboration with Sandie Shaw, the formation of the band, Rough Trade, and potential success in America.”

No.1 – 28 April 1984

“”The Rivals” / ” The Smith And The Bunnyman” is a conversation/co-interview between Morrissey and Echo & The Bunnymen’s Ian McCulloch. Topics: Liverpool vs Manchester, being in the best band, fans, the band names, being rock’n’roll, band rivalry, etc. Photos of Morrissey and McCulloch alongside the article and on the cover.”

No. 1 – 7 January 1984

“”If I Ruled The World”. Morrissey interviewed by Karen Swayne. Topics: nightmares, technology, computers, television, video games, freedom, government, sex, past times, planning, language, dreams.”

No. 1 – 3 March 1984

“”Smithspeak”. Morrissey answers 20 questions from Mark Cooper. Topics: his voice, his shirts, favourite comedian, fame, flowers, seeing himself as a writer, glasses, working with Johnny Marr, favourite food, being northern, parenthood, other music, and much more.”

NME – 22-29 December 1984

“”A Suitable Case For Treatment”, Morrissey and Marr interview. Photos by Derek Ridgers. Topics: violence, upcoming Meat Is Murder album, schooldays, writing, Northern England, sixties, classes, sexuality, being poor, being miserable.”

NME – 21 April 1984

“”Onto A Shaw Thing”, a Sandie Shaw interview by Adrian Thrills at the time of the release of her single with The Smiths. Photo by Derek Ridgers. Topics: her return to singing, her meeting Morrissey, Morrissey himself, future plans.”

NME – 4 February 1984

“The Smiths’ first NME cover, featuring an in-depth interview with Morrissey and Johnny, and a few snippets from Mike and Andy as well. Topics: Morrissey’s lyrics, The Smiths’ style, sex, films, Johnny’s musical influences, and his relationship with Morrissey.”

Melody Maker – 4 August 1984

“Morrissey reviews the singles.”

Melody Maker – 3 November 1984

“The Smiths / Hats Off For Morrissey/A Hard Day’s Misery”. Morrissey on cover. Morrissey interview by Ian Pye. Topics: living in London, success, parents, school, James Dean, New York Dolls, America, Thatcher, videos, Top Of The Pops, current music scene, fashion, lyrics, sex”

Melody Maker – 3 March 1984

“Lengthy interview/article conducted by Allan Jones in Reading in February 1984. Morrissey on the cover. Topics: Morrissey before the Smiths, loneliness, success, Smiths music and lyrics, giving interviews, sex and relationships, the debut album.”

Matter – April May 1984

“Morrissey interview conducted at the Hotel Iroquois in New York City, prior to The Smiths’ 1983 New Year’s Eve gig at The Danceteria. Topics: success and further ambition, speaking to the press, vanity, masculinity, and homosexual imagery.”

Jamming – 6 May 1984

“Morrissey interview. Photos by Paul Cox and Russell Young. Topics: having something to say, sex, the Smiths vs the current music scene, the songwriting, success, etc.”

Jamming – December 1984

“Morrissey interview, in which he discusses The Smiths’ success, giving interviews, his public persona, celibacy, and fulfilling his ambitions.”

Hot Press – 4 May 1984

“Morrissey interview by Neil McCormick “The Secret Life Of Morrissey ” / “All Men Have Secrets And These Are Morrissey’s”. Cover photo. Topics: image, Ireland, Manchester and London, before the Smiths, love life, being a pop star, fans, suicide, death, religion, happiness, the Smiths.”

Especially Yellow – 1984

Includes an interview with Morrissey.

Debut – 1984

“Volume 6 of this special series of magazine with records includes a Morrissey and Marr interview by Roger Morton titled ‘Far From The Madding Crowd’. The record features the Smiths’ ‘Pretty Girls Make Graves’”

City Life – 8 March 1984

Morrissey and Marr interview

Blitz – May 1984

“‘Soul On Fire’, a Morrissey interview by Jim Shelley. Photos by Nick Knight. Topics: his character and dealing with being a public person, suicide, happiness and depression, trusting people, friendships.”

Best – May 1984

“Includes a 2-page article with interviews by Georges Daublon with Morrissey and Marr. Also includes a review of the Loughborough concert.”

1983

Time out – 8 December 1983

“Short, introductory about The Smiths’ newfound success, including a brief interview with Morrissey.”

Sounds – 4 June 1983

“‘Handsome Devils’, a Morrissey and Marr interview by Dave McCullough (titled “Dave McCullough is smitten with the Smiths”). Topics: Factory, sexuality, feminism, flowers, humour, jobs and being handsome. The issue that came out the next week contained two negative letters from readers about the band, which could be the first ones of many!”

Sounds – 24 December 1983

“Article by Morrissey himself on the story of Sandie Shaw. It ends with the line “Sandie’s return to centre stage should thrill all individuals with ears.” Of course, the Smiths would be the ones bringing her back under the spotlight four months later.”

Smash Hits – 10 November 1983

“Short interview by Ian Birch. Topics: the origin of the band’s name, and the use of flowers.”

Record Mirror – 12 November 1983

“‘Strictly Shrub-wise’, a Morrissey interview by Graham K. Smith. Topics: being a sex symbol, Rough Trade, the 60s, sex, writing.”

No. 1 – 26 November 1983

“Short Morrissey interview, covering topics such as modernity, the use of flowers, and gender roles. Also includes the lyrics to “This charming man”.”

NME – 17 September 1983

“‘Portrait Of The Artist As A Consumer’, a list of Morrissey’s favourite records, films, books and symbolists. Photo by Joelle Depont.”

NME – 24 September 1983

“The Smith Hunt”, a Morrissey interview by David Dorrell. Photographs by Kevin Cummins. Topics included mostly the Sun’s allegations of paedophilia and its consequences within the band. Success, signing an american deal, love, being outspoken are other topics covered.

NME – 14 May 1983

“Crisp Songs And Salted Lyrics”, most likely the first NME interview. Conducted by Cath Carroll. The interview included one line by Mike Joyce.”

Melody Maker – 3 September 1983

“‘The Cradle Snatchers’. A Morrissey interview by Frank Worrall. Photos by Zbysiu Rodak. Topics include introducing the Smiths, labels, the upcoming debut album, trends, flowers, lyrics”

i-D – February 1983

“Mr Smith All Mouth And Trousers?”, a Morrissey interview by Dylan Jones with photographs by Richard Croft. Topics: British music, England, living in the past, sex, love, the end of the Smiths, audience, “Strangeways Here We Come”.

Him Issue # 61 – 1983

Morrissey interview by Catherine Miles. Topics: homoerotic lyrics, playing gay venues, the gay clubbing scene, being a sex symbol, homoerotic artwork, fame.

Rox Issue # 23 – 1983

“A Morrissey and Johnny Marr interview by Rob Graham. Topics: first touches of fame, the music scene, money, Morrissey himself and Johnny talks guitars.”

The Underground (Fanzine) Issue #2, 1983

Issue no 2 of this fanzine which was put together by Flatmates guitarist and Subway boss Martin Whitehead features an interview with Morrissey and Marr. Co-interviewer: Dave Moral. Topics: signing with independent label Rough Trade instead of a major, being an independent band, ambitions, songwriting, music, its powers and its impending death, the greatness of…

Sounds – 19 November 1983

“An interview by Bill Black. Very nice photos of The Smiths by Paul Slattery on cover and inside. Topics: the Smiths’ aims, the formation of the band, the current music scene, the sixties influence, Manchester, lyrics.”

Debris Issue #2 – November 1983

“Morrissey interview by Dave Haslam. Topics: the very first single bought, being part of pop music tradition, musical heroes, favourite films, writing lyrics, fame, being interviewed, flowers, Rough Trade, the New York mix of “This Charming Man”, ‘the cult of the beautiful’, “Handsome Devil” and sexual segregation, the perfect night ‘in’, the future.”